Washington, DC shines with can’t-miss events, new exhibits and praiseworthy performances throughout the upcoming year.
Every year, Washington, DC is on a short list of essential travel destinations. In years past, the nation's capital has landed on Condé Nast Traveler's "The Best Places to Go in the U.S.," the New York Times' top places to go around the world and TripAdvisor's top destinations in the U.S. This year is a big one thanks to major events like America's 250th birthday, the reopening of the National Geographic Museum of Exploration and much more. We’ve highlighted a complete list of why DC will thrive in 2026, so whenever you’re ready, book your stay with these great deals at DC hotels.
Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week – Jan. 2026 TBD
Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington hosts two annual celebrations of DC’s eclectic dining scene: one in January and a summer edition in August. For both seasonal editions, Restaurant Week offers diners pre-fixe menus for lunch/brunch ($25/$35) and dinner ($40/$55/$65).
Washington Auto Show – Jan. 23 – Feb. 1, 2026
The world-class event displays engineering prowess and innovation along with more than 600 new models from 30+ car manufacturers inside the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Interactive displays and on-site activations add to the fascination of this motor vehicle showcase.
National Cherry Blossom Festival – March 20 – April 12, 2026
DC celebrates the blooming of cherry trees with a month-long festival that commemorates the 1912 gift from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo to the city. Peak bloom, which is defined as when 70% of the Yoshino cherry trees at the Tidal Basin have fully opened, is predicted to occur between March 28-31 and the best time to view the blossoms lasts for about a week after peak bloom (and even a few days longer in ideal conditions). Check out popular festival events in the lead-up to the celebration, in addition to our guide to the celebration, how to get the most popular blossom spots and the best places to snap photos.
Washington Nationals Baseball Home Opener on April 3, 2026
The Washington Nationals, who have four National League East titles, five postseason appearances and a World Series championship since coming to DC in 2005, are one of the city's main attractions throughout the spring and summer. Head to Nationals Park to experience MLB action with an exciting schedule, plenty of home runs and, of course, Racing Presidents. The Nats, as they are lovingly called by locals, celebrate their 20th anniversary in the nation's capital with a year filled with special events.
Awesome Con – March 13-15, 2026
More than 70,000 fans can see their favorite stars from comics, films, TV, toys and games throughout Awesome Con, a three-day festival that is Washington, DC’s own Comic Con. Expect plenty of costumed attendees and an array of activities to enjoy during one of the city’s most vibrant annual events.
Passport DC – May 1-31, 2026
A month of programming across the city focuses on showcasing DC’s international culture. The Around the World Embassy Tour and the European Union Open House are annual highlights, usually held on the first two Saturdays of the month. Most events and tours can be enjoyed entirely free of charge.
Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle – June 27-28, 2026
Everyone’s favorite barbecue-flavored event has been held in DC for more than 30 years. Pitmasters from all 50 states, local restaurants and live music shut down Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd and 7th streets NW for a lively, two-day street party. Cooking demos and free tastings make for a savory (and filling) experience.
Smithsonian Festival – July 4, 2026
Mubadala Citi DC Open – July 25 – Aug. 2, 2026
The District’s signature professional tennis tournament will return to Rock Creek Park Tennis Center for its 55th edition in 2024. Top-tier talent from all over the world will compete for a prestigious trophy, leading to back-and-forth action that you do not want to miss.
Otakon – July 31 – Aug. 2, 2026
Annually held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Otakon just might be the dedicated event space’s liveliest function all year long. The family-friendly convention is run by and dedicated to fans of Asian media, entertainment and pop culture, including anime, manga, music, movies and video games. The festivities range from cosplay contests, skits and live music to panel discussions with comic book (super)heroes, for-sale artworks and more.
DC JazzFest – Sept. 2-6
The ultimate American art form comes to DC stages with leading artists from all over the world during this annual festival. Performances, which take place across the city, are both free and ticketed.
Walkingtown DC – Late Sept. 2026 TBD
Events DC showcases the incredible walkability of the nation’s capital during Walkingtown DC, a free, week-long public tour program. In total, dozens of guided walking tours are held throughout the District, including neighborhood showcases, themed excursions, historical journeys and many more. Historians, licensed tour guides, community leaders and business owners, among others, host these adventures that will take you to both well-known and hidden gems across DC.
Downtown Holiday Market – Late Nov. 2026 TBD
DC’s free-to-frequent downtown bazaar is centrally located in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery. The beloved market stretches across two blocks of F Street between 7th and 9th streets. Scope out eclectic wares from dozens of pop-up tents with seasonally flavored music performed live in the background. Locally roasted coffee and crafted-before-your-eyes mini-doughnuts inspire a cold-weather appetite, creating a holiday atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
National Menorah Lighting – Dec. 2026 TBD
Chanukah kicks off with this lighting ceremony of the world’s largest menorah on the White House Ellipse, which greets all with latkes, doughnuts, menorah kits and dreidels. Music from the United States Navy Band will add a soundtrack to the scene. As is the custom, a new candle is illuminated on each of the eight days of Hanukkah.
National Christmas Tree Lighting – Dec. 2025 TBD
The National Christmas Tree is DC’s claim to fame during the holidays, and for good reason. The gorgeous conifer lives in President’s Park on the White House Ellipse, where it's surrounded by trees decorated with handmade ornaments from 56 U.S. states and territories and is accompanied by nightly musical performances throughout the holiday season. The display is free to visit.
